Design Career Handbook
Everything You Need to Know to Get a Job and Be Successful
By Kevin Flores and Jeanine Flores
Embark on your career journey with confidence using the Design Career Handbook, your ultimate companion to success in the dynamic world of design professions. Authored by seasoned industry experts, this comprehensive guide presents invaluable insights and practical advice for self-taught artists, students, career changers, and working designers.
Structured for flexibility, this book empowers you to explore topics at your own pace, making it your indispensable roadmap to a fulfilling career in design.
Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9906318-0-9 | Ebook ISBN: 979-8-9906318-1-6
Published: August 2024 | Paperback: 360 pages
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ABOUT THE BOOK
Do you like being creative, solving problems, and understanding how and why things are made? Excellent! These are all traits of a fantastic designer. But you may have many questions about design as a profession. What kind of jobs are there? What do I need to learn? How do I get my first job? What does it take to have a successful career in design?
Working designers will find many advanced topics, such as avoiding imposter syndrome, succeeding in your job, leveling up, getting promoted, and planning your future.
We’ve reviewed thousands of resumes and portfolios, interviewed and hired designers at all levels, and taught, mentored, and managed people at all career stages, supporting their growth and aspirations. We’ve gained so much from the design industry that we’re excited to share back.
In addition to our personal experiences, we interviewed different types of designers to include diverse perspectives.
In this book, you’ll discover:
Essential design fundamentals
Different educational routes
Descriptions for a broad range of design jobs
Guidance to develop a stand-out portfolio
Comparisons of working at different size companies
Critical steps to set up a freelance business
Tips to search and apply for jobs that are a great fit
Insight into what recruiters and hiring managers look for
How to nail interviews, design challenges, and presentations
Tools to be successful in your first (or next) design job
Advice on how to make an impact and shine in performance reviews
Strategies for your development and career growth
And much more!
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Kevin and Jeanine Flores have collaborated since meeting as design undergraduates at the University of Illinois. They went on to cofound an agency in Silicon Valley during the 90s. Highlights of their work were published in two books on interface design and recognized by industry awards. Before their career paths diverged, they worked as successful freelance designers on everything from brand and social media marketing to consumer hardware and mobile apps.
Kevin acquired significant insights and experience in entrepreneurship through his involvement in multiple startup ventures. He then built and led product and design teams at Verizon, 23andMe, and LinkedIn. He co-authored more than twenty web and mobile technology patents and worked for a pop star. Kevin continues to serve as a consultant, mentor, and coach in the design community.
Jeanine now applies her industry experience to bring relevant challenges to her students in higher education. She teaches graphic design theory, typography, page layout, and branding to inspire and prepare the next generation of designers. Jeanine earned a Master of Science degree in Online Education focusing on instructional design–invaluable as academia needs to keep up with technology.
